The cashew nut has two parts, a swollen
fleshy stem (the cashew ‘apple’), and the much smaller seed at its tip. The husk
around the seed contains an oil used in the chemical industry for lubrication,
but which is also capable of burning the skin. Gloves must be worn when removing
this husk. The ‘apple’ can be eaten fresh, or can be used in many drinks and
foods, including wine and vinegar. The tree fruits in Honduras from March to
May.